Commission approves new all-alcohol license for 451 Broadway function hall

The Lowell Licensing Commission voted Aug. 28 to approve an annual all-alcohol restaurant license for Salon Solutions Realty LLC, which plans to operate a function hall at 451 Broadway under the trade name Fiesta Hall. Applicant Ariel (Ayesha) Furman told the commission the space would operate as a scheduled function hall — hosting birthdays, graduations, baby showers and similar private events — with an intended capacity of about 60 to 80 people. The applicant said the hair salon on the second floor will remain and that alcohol service will be limited to scheduled events in the downstairs function space rather than daily bar service. Commissioners asked about parking, food and bartender training. Furman said the site has three front parking spots plus off-street parking and that events typically bring their own food; she said Fiesta Hall will hire trained, CHIP-certified bartenders for events. Commissioner Mercier moved approval; Commissioner Krieger seconded and the commission approved the license by voice vote. Why it matters: the approval authorizes an annual all-alcohol license for a new event space in a mixed-use building downtown; commissioners emphasized the license is tied to event-only service and certified bartenders. Details: the commission recorded the approval as an annual license rather than event-by-event one-day permits; applicants were reminded to ensure bartending staff have required certifications and to manage parking for scheduled events.